Maine east-west highway plan moves forward with adjustment

Legislation seeking $300,000 in money from the state of Maine for an east-west highway feasibility study is moving forward, with a change that makes the developer pay back the cost of the study if the highway is built, according to a report by WGME News, a CBS affiliate.

The idea of a highway across Maine connecting New Brunswick with Quebec has been discussed for years. The latest plan calls for a privately funded highway maintained with tolls.

The House and Senate have both approved a bill calling for the feasibility study. On Wednesday, the House added an amendment that says the $300,000 for the study to be paid for with state highway funds must be paid back by the private developer if the highway get built.